Hundreds of doctors and nurses have been left free to practise unchecked despite being accused of serious sexual assault and rape in the last six years, The Independent can reveal. Between 2018 and 2024, some 248 doctors faced allegations of rape, sexual assault or attempted rape without their licences being suspended, according to new figures from the General Medical Council (GMC) . The scandal-hit Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) had more than 400 nurses practising without restrictions after sexual offence allegations between 2019 and 2024.
The shocking figures, obtained via a freedom of information (FOI) request, call into question the decision-making of the UK’s two biggest health watchdogs after a series of exposés by The Independent. Health secretary Wes Streeting met the chair of the NMC, Sir David Warren, at the end of last month to discuss the concerns raised by this publication’s reporting. The Independent can reveal: If you have been impacted by this story email rebecca.
thomas@independent.co.uk or tara.
cobham@independent.co.uk Dr Becky Cox, a GP and founder of Surviving in Scrubs, a group which represents doctors assaulted at work, told The Independent : “We are deeply concerned by this data showing a low proportion of doctors accused of sexual assault receive interim orders to limit their practise whilst awaiting investigation and tribunal.
“We strongly encourage the GMC to ensure that appropriate measures are put in place to safeguard patients, staff.